Why do I get so many nosebleeds? Is it a side effect?

Question

I wake up with dry blood on my nose and i thought it was just because of my dry nose but then i got a nosebleed during the daytime out of nowhere. I don't know if it is due to the dry nose or if it is a side effect that I have.

Cheryl M. Burgess, MD, FAAD · Answer

There can be many side effects of Accutane therapy (isotretinoin) including spontaneous nose bleed due to drying out of the mucosal nasal passages. Depending on the proximity of your nasal vasculature and the mucosal surface, a minor sneeze can cause a nose bleed. Therefore, nose bleeds can occur in extreme cold weather, sneezing, blowing of the nose, and allergies/sinusitis. Lubrication of the nose mucosal surfaces is usually adequate therapy until the course of Accutane has been completed. Most products can be purchased in the drug store.

Alim R. Devani, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Accutane is an oral form of vitamin A. It reduces the amount
of oil released by oil glands in your skin, and helps your skin renew itself
more quickly. Accutane is used to treat severe nodular acne. It is usually
given after other acne medicines or antibiotics have been tried without
successful treatment of symptoms. Because it can cause severe, life-threatening
birth defects, many doctors are hesistant to use it. Never use Accutane if you
are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Women of child-bearing potential must agree
in writing to use two specific forms of birth control and have regular
pregnancy tests before, during, and after taking isotretinoin. Since their has
been some links to depression, crohns disease, liver disease and other rare
effects, many lawsuits have arisen in the USA which is another reason it is
very difficult to give. Accutane is available only under a special program
called iPLEDGE in the USA. One of the main side effect of accutane is the extreme dryness of the mucous membranes including the nose. To prevent this, use vasoline or aquaphor to moisturize the inside of the nose. Overall, in the right hands, it is a great
medication and if used properly, it will clear acne for life in 90-95% of
cases.

Why do I get so many nosebleeds? Is it a side effect?

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Answers (2)

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